Tibet Nepal Bhutan Tour

Nepal Tibet Bhutan Tour FAQs & Travel Tips

• 1. Where Are Himalayan Destinations—Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan—Located?

  Tibet autonomous region of China, Nepal, and Bhutan are Himalayan neighbors, each showcasing the region's diverse geography. Tibet lies to the north and is known as the "roof of the world" due to its elevation of over 4,000 meters.

  Nepal shares a border with Tibet autonomous region, with the peak of Mount Everest marking their boundary, and its capital, Kathmandu, is about 160 km to the southwest.

  Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, is 359 km southwest of Lhasa and 453 km east of Kathmandu. Although close, Nepal and Bhutan are separated by Sikkim, a northeastern Indian state. Bhutan's northern border runs along Tibet's southern edge.

• 2. Is It Easy to Travel to Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan Together?

  The three regions share deep cultural and historical ties and are easily accessible to one another. Kathmandu is the only city with direct flights to Lhasa, making Nepal the main transfer hub between Tibet autonomous region and Bhutan.

  In addition to flights, Nepal and Tibet are linked by an overland route from Lhasa to Kathmandu, crossing the Tibetan Plateau and descending through the Gyirong Valley to Nepal.

  A short 1-hour, 15-minute flight connects Kathmandu to Paro, Bhutan's only international airport. Despite Bhutan and Tibet's long shared border, there are no direct flight or land connections between them.

• 3. Which Destination Should I Start From?

  Starting from either Nepal or Tibet has its advantages. Lhasa is accessible by flight or train via major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu, which also have direct connections to North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia.

  You can begin your tour in Tibet autonomous region, travel overland or by air to Kathmandu, fly to Bhutan, and then return home from Nepal.

  Kathmandu offers easy entry with a visa on arrival and has flights from major hubs like Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Shanghai. From Nepal, you can easily travel to Bhutan or Tibet, allowing flexibility in your itinerary.

  However, entering Tibet China from Nepal requires a special Chinese Group Visa, which can only be obtained in Kathmandu and takes four days. This is manageable if you're planning to stay in Nepal during that time, but otherwise, it may require adjustments to your plans.

• 4. How Many Days Are Recommended to Visit Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan Together?

  Most tourists spend 14-17 days visiting all three places. The tour typically begins in Kathmandu, then flies to Lhasa for two days to explore sites like Potala Palace.

  From there, it returns to Nepal overland, passing through Everest Base Camp. Afterward, a quick flight to Bhutan allows four days to explore the kingdom, including Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The tour ends back in Kathmandu for onward travel.

  Shorter tours, while possible, are rushed. In 11 days, you can start in Lhasa, fly to Kathmandu (with a glimpse of Everest from the plane), explore the area around the capital, and visit Paro and Thimphu in Bhutan.

• 5. What Is the Best Time to Visit Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan Together?

  The three places have different climates, but spring and autumn offer favorable conditions for all. Tibet autonomous region has a long, cold winter, but spring brings pleasant, warm days with clear visibility, though nights can drop to 0°C.

  Nepal and Bhutan have a mostly subtropical climate, with warmer and wetter weather. Spring and autumn are ideal for outdoor activities, with clear skies and average highs around 20°C. Spring’s blooming landscapes are especially picturesque, making it a perfect time for trekking.

• 6. Is It Expensive to Travel to Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan Together?

  Visiting Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan isn't cheap, but it offers great value for an unforgettable experience. A 14-day tour, including an overnight at Everest Base Camp, costs $225 per day.

  This price covers all necessary Tibet travel documents, a Bhutan visa, admission tickets, comfortable 3-star hotels, and all meals listed in the itinerary. It also includes flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa and Paro, all domestic transfers in a private vehicle with an experienced driver, an English-speaking guide, and travel insurance.

  Everything you need is included except personal expenses and tips. To save on international flights to and from Nepal, book early and choose good connecting flights.

• 7. Nepal vs. Bhutan vs. Tibet autonomous region: What Are the Key Differences?

  The three places share historical and cultural roots but offer diverse experiences. Tibet autonomous region of China is a high-altitude plateau with vast, arid landscapes and towering mountains.

  Nepal’s geography varies from the peak of Mount Everest to lowland plains, with elevations below 100m. Bhutan features steep mountain valleys and dense forests.

  Buddhism is central to the traditions of all three, but Nepal also has strong Hindu influences. While Nepal and Tibet are remote yet popular with tourists, Bhutan limits visitors and emphasizes cultural exploration and trekking.

• 8. If I Have Limited Time, Which Two Destinations Are Must-Visits?

  If you can only visit two Himalayan places, Nepal and Tibet are the most accessible and offer views of Mount Everest. With both flight and overland routes between Kathmandu and Lhasa, these regions provide a seamless, in-depth Himalayan experience.

  Only in Nepal and Tibet can you see Everest from both the north and south sides. Traveling across the Himalayas and through the Gyirong Valley reveals peaceful Sherpa villages and diverse cultures shaped by the imposing mountains.

• 9. What Travel Documents Need to Be Prepared in Advance?

  Nepal is the easiest to enter, with visas available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Costs vary by stay length: $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, and $125 for 90 days.

  Both Bhutan and Tibet autonomous region require travelers to join a registered tour. For Bhutan, the travel agency arranges the visa after booking. Start the process at least 3-4 weeks in advance.

  For Tibet, you'll need a Chinese tourist visa before applying for the Tibet Travel Permit (TTP). Visas are obtained through a Chinese Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Service Center and typically take 3-4 business days. The local travel agency handles the TTP application.

• 10. Dos and Don’ts for Visiting Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan Together

  Do obtain the necessary permits in advance. The visa for Bhutan and the Tibet Travel Permit take time to process. Book your tour at least a month ahead to allow for enough time.

  Do be sensitive to local customs. Dress modestly when entering monasteries or religious sites, and ask permission before taking photographs of people or spiritual objects.

  Do use trusted local tour operators. In Tibet autonomous region of China and Bhutan, local expertise is essential for a smooth trip.

  Don’t neglect travel insurance. Traveling in the Himalayas is generally safe, but it's best to be covered for any emergencies that might arise.

  Don’t ignore local advice. Local guides provide the most accurate information on safety, weather conditions, and cultural practices.